Numerical modelling of root-soil interaction and effect of change in stiffness on stress on root

Abstract

In 2016, Singapore as one of the greenest cities in the world experienced approximately 800 tree failures. Tree failures are often fatal enough to cause casualties to pedestrians and/or infrastructures. Therefore, it is important to study the factors that influence the tree failures i.e. modulus of elasticity. In this project, numerical study on tree and parametric study on modulus of elasticity of tree and soil were conducted on Khaya senegalensis and Samanea saman to identify the critical modulus of elasticity that significantly affects the stress on root. Finally, direction test analysis was done not only to assess the relation between load direction and root structures of trees but also to identify the alert level of modulus of elasticity of soil which is crucial to prevent the root break failure.